06.04.18
Repairs needed after landslip causes extensive damage to Yorkshire tunnel
Work is underway to repair Springs Tunnel after a landslip caused extensive damage to the structure.
On 3 April, the driver of a Northern train reported seeing a tree perched “precariously” over the southern portal to the tunnel, south of Guiseley station.
Since then, Network Rail engineers have been assessing the damaged portal and the railway infrastructure, as well as making plans to clear away the 80 tonnes of fallen debris, which includes large trees and soil.
Repairs are likely to take several days, and diversions in West Yorkshire are expected to continue until Monday.
Chris Gee, head of operations for Network Rail, explained that recent downpours had caused some of the embankment at the southern end of the tunnel to slip.
“Our teams have been working on site 24/7 since the landslip was reported and progress so far has been good,” he said.
“We’re working towards getting the direct service between Leeds and Ilkley back up and running by Monday morning and thank those who are disrupted by this incident for their patience and understanding.”
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